I797

I am wondering if original I797 required for H4 application. The director of International Student and Scholar Services Office of International Education of the university where I am working told me that just a copy of I797 is needed. And I have sent all documents to China without the original I797. If that doesn't work, it will be very bad to me. Does anybody know if a copy of I797 works sometimes? Thanks a lot. Also another question is if I send the original I797, what can I do later when I renew my visa since the I797 will be asked again.